After using the Nothing Phone (3a) for about two weeks, I’ve noticed a few things that could be improved in the latest Nothing OS 3.2. While the overall experience is smooth, clean, and visually unique, there are still some missing features and small issues that affect day-to-day usability.
Here are the key drawbacks and missing features I’ve found so far:
1. Double-Tap to Lock Not Working on lock screen:
When the screen is on and locked, double-tapping does not turn off the display or lock the device immediately. It only work when user double tap on home screen.
2. No Option to Disable Suggested Contacts While Sharing:
When sharing files or media, the system shows a list of frequently used contacts from apps like WhatsApp or Messages. Currently, there’s no option to turn off these contact suggestions, which may raise privacy concerns for users who prefer not to display frequently used contacts.
3. Missing Features in Screenshot :
After taking a screenshot, the “Long Screenshot” or “Scroll Screenshot” option—common in many Android systems—is missing. In addition, right after taking a screenshot, there are only two options available: delete or share. There’s no option to edit the screenshot immediately, such as cropping or marking it up.
4. Lack of Native App Support and Custom Utilities:
Nothing OS relies heavily on Google’s ecosystem for core apps like Photos, Calculator, and Calendar. While the recent introduction of Nothing Gallery is a welcome addition, the overall native app support remains minimal.
Many other brands provide their own feature-rich native apps—such as advanced calculators, calendars, file managers, and note apps—that enhance the user experience. In comparison, Nothing’s limited set of built-in apps feels basic and dependent on Google for even essential functions.
5. Missing Pro Video Mode in Camera Interface:
Although the camera interface in Nothing OS is clean and optimized, it lacks a Pro Video Mode.
6. Lack of Advanced AI Features:
Nothing OS currently offers very limited AI integration — mainly Circle to Search. Features like Magic Eraser, AI photo editing, or smart suggestions are only available through Google Photos, not as native Nothing features. While Nothing has hinted at adding AI tools within Essential Space, as of Nothing OS 3.2, there are still no notable in-built AI experiences.
7. No Option to Lock Apps in the Recent Menu:
In the recent apps view, users can access options like Pop-up View or Split Screen, but there’s no option to lock apps. Locking an app prevents it from being cleared when all recent apps are closed, ensuring it stays active for quick access. The absence of this feature can be inconvenient for multitaskers who want to keep certain apps running in the background.
